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A review by nadiamasood
A Maiden's Prayer: A Family Story Set in 1970s Sri Lanka by Srianthi Perera
funny
hopeful
informative
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
What a charming story! We experience life in 1970s Sri Lanka through the innocent eyes of Tamara, a teenage girl. Much of the story revolves around her wealthy maternal uncle, Berty, an engineer with a lucrative job in Saudi Arabia. His sisters (and other meddling relatives) make it their life mission to find him a wife, and their matchmaking shenanigans add humor to the narrative.
Perera writes with humor and warmth. I appreciated how the story immerses us in Sri Lankan culture, as well as the turbulent period in the country's history marked by food shortages and a soaring cost of living. And through it all is Tamara's coming-of-age story, with rituals and customs that were unfamiliar yet utterly fascinating to me!
While the cultural immersion is delightful, the plot does slow down at times, leaving you wishing for a bit more momentum. I also hoped there was a deeper growth in Tamara's character.
If you're looking to discover new cultures through fiction (with a side of nosy aunties and dramatic family gatherings), this book might be just what you need. A Maiden's Prayer is a charming, leisurely read, perfect for a cozy weekend, ideally with a cup of tea!
Perera writes with humor and warmth. I appreciated how the story immerses us in Sri Lankan culture, as well as the turbulent period in the country's history marked by food shortages and a soaring cost of living. And through it all is Tamara's coming-of-age story, with rituals and customs that were unfamiliar yet utterly fascinating to me!
While the cultural immersion is delightful, the plot does slow down at times, leaving you wishing for a bit more momentum. I also hoped there was a deeper growth in Tamara's character.
If you're looking to discover new cultures through fiction (with a side of nosy aunties and dramatic family gatherings), this book might be just what you need. A Maiden's Prayer is a charming, leisurely read, perfect for a cozy weekend, ideally with a cup of tea!